Crab Crunchies
Crab Crunchies are a delightfully crispy snack combining the rich, savory flavor of fresh crab meat with an irresistibly crunchy panko breadcrumb coating. Perfect as an anytime snack or impressive appetizer, they offer authentic seafood taste with customizable seasoning options and the choice of frying or baking for preferred texture and health needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 20 bite-sized crunchies
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying (optional baking)
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Can be gluten-free (use gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Crab Meat – 1 cup
- Mayonnaise – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Lemon Zest – 1 teaspoon
- Chopped Green Onions – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Panko Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
- Vegetable Oil (for frying) – enough to deep fry
Instructions
- Prepare the Crab Mixture: Gently combine fresh crab meat, mayonnaise, garlic powder, lemon zest, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix just enough to bind while keeping crab texture intact.
- Form the Crunchie Shapes: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties, ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs: Roll each shaped crab ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated, creating the signature crispy crust.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated crunchies in batches, turning occasionally, for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the crunchies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm for best crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh crab meat when possible for optimal flavor and texture.
- Handle the mixture gently to keep crab flaky and avoid dense consistency.
- Form uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Maintain oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) for crispy crust without excess oil absorption.
- Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crunchiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: Crab snack, Seafood appetizer, Crunchy crab balls, Crispy crab bites, Easy seafood snack
Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/crab-crunchies/
